James R. Biddle

James R. “Jim” Biddle, 70, formerly of Newman IL, passed away on Wednesday, October 16, surrounded by his family. His parents, Donna Biddle, Everette (Pauline) Biddle preceded him in death.

Jim graduated from Newman High School and attended Illinois State University from 1972 to 1977. When his father had an accident, Jim left college to help on the farm, leaving himself one class short of graduating. Forty-eight years later, at the age of 70, he received his degree in Business and was looking forward to walking with the Graduating Class of 2025.

Jim enjoyed all sports and as a young man played competitive softball. He was an avid Cardinals and “Da Bears” fan which he continued to follow throughout his entire life. Jim also held season tickets for all Illini football and basketball games for many years.

Jim was a lifelong farmer in Newman and a proud member of the American Soybean Association which he served as a national director for many years. He and his wife, Jacqui, became “snowbirds” in 2013 when they moved to LRV, a 55+ community in Haines City, Fl. and eventually moved their full time in 2022.

Jim loved to make people smile and laugh so he often wore bright outlandish outfits to accomplish his goal. His real passion however was taking daily pictures of sunsets which he religiously posted on Facebook for all of his friends and family to enjoy.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jacqui, and three children: Erin Beaulieu (Lori), Villa Grove; Adam Beaulieu, Sydney Australia, and Prudence Blumenshine (Brad), Mahomet. Jim was grandfather to 4 children: Zachary Blumenshine, Mahomet; Erin Beaulieu, Villa Grove; Angelica (Sean) Berry, Arizona and Frankie Ragonese, Florida. He had two loving sisters; Marsha Lenzini (Pete), Urbana and Paulette Schriefer (Jeff), Windsor CO. Uncle Jim was very close to his nephews: Nate Enlow (Chrissy), Virginia Beach; Ken Perkins (Sara)and Brandon Perkins, Pennsylvania; John Schriefer (Megan) and Matt Schriefer (Michelle) of Colorado. Jim also had nine great nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 1 – 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at Joines Funeral Home in Newman.  Funeral will follow at 2 p.m. with Pastor Duane Piercy officiating.

In Lieu of flowers, Jim would want his friends and family to hold someone close and enjoy a beautiful sunset together.

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